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CAPTAIN MARIANTHI KASDAGLI: Charting her own course at sea

By NEO Magazine on July 26, 2025

by Kelly Fanarioti

In a world where saltwater and steel have long been considered the domain of men, Marianthi Kasdagli has charted her own course and thrived. From a young age, the pull of the sea was undeniable, offering both a sense of freedom and a promising future. With a deep-rooted sense of duty and maturity beyond her years, she made a bold choice: to pursue a life in maritime professions.

Coming from a large working-class family with four children, she was the eldest — a role that naturally instilled in her responsibility, resilience, and drive. For her, the sea wasn’t just a dream; it was a path toward stability, independence, and a life on her own terms.

Kasdagli described her profession as one shaped by constant demands, from the unpredictability of the sea to the weight of responsibility she carries daily. As the captain of a luxury yacht, she is not only tasked with navigating complex maritime conditions, but also with ensuring the safety and satisfaction of everyone on board. “The weather can change in minutes, and you have to be ready for anything — from mechanical issues to last-minute changes in plans,” she says.

She passed the national entrance exams and was accepted into the Merchant Marine Academy. Initially drawn to the shipping industry, she later found her niche in yachting. As she explains to NEO, she now serves as a Captain aboard a 42-metre vessel, bearing responsibility for millions of dollars in assets — and, most importantly, for human lives. She approaches her work with a strong sense of responsibility, which is why she always keeps a Plan B in mind. “I experience constructive stress — it doesn’t paralyze me,” she says. “This job isn’t about physical strength, as some people mistakenly believe. It’s about crisis management and decision-making under pressure. There were many times when I had to surpass my own limits and go beyond what I thought I was capable of.”

Early in her career, she encountered strong doubt and resistance simply because she was a woman. As she recalls, some of her male colleagues made comments suggesting she wouldn’t succeed because of her gender. Kasdagli proved them wrong and managed not only to stand as an equal, but also to distinguish herself in a male-dominated and demanding field, earning the respect of both her colleagues and her clients. Through perseverance, hard work, and dedication to her role, she demonstrated that competence has no gender.

Her days are long, and no two are ever the same. During trips, she remains constantly vigilant — monitoring weather conditions, coordinating with her crew, and making sure the guests enjoy a seamless experience. Every detail matters, from safely anchoring the vessel to solving technical issues discreetly. “Even when something goes wrong, the goal is for guests to never notice. That means working quietly and efficiently in the background,” she explains.

The young captain, who has been at sea since the age of 18, deeply loves her work. She has traveled to many countries and has even spent up to nine consecutive months on board while working on commercial ships. This demanding lifestyle has given her independence, but it has also come at a cost. She has had to sacrifice time with her family, childhood friends, and the warmth of her mother’s home-cooked meals.

“I truly love what I do, even though by nature it is exhausting and emotionally draining. One day, I would like to start a family of my own. If I meet the right person and that happens, I know I won’t be able to sustain this lifestyle.”

In recent years, Marianthi has launched her own company, called “Lady Captain Yacht.” The business acts as an intermediary for luxury yacht rentals, offering short-term bookings even online. “This venture is still in its early stages, but it’s something I really want to grow. It’s not easy to be a captain and run your own business at the same time — but I’m a strong person, and I don’t give up easily.”

Her vision for the future is clear. She hopes to continue expanding her business while inspiring more women to enter the maritime world. “It can be tough, and there are still obstacles to overcome,” she admits. “But if you love the sea and you’re willing to work hard, there’s a place for you here — regardless of gender.”

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